Zone Bit Recording

When discussing computer storage, the term ‘zone bit recording’ refers to a methodology used in HDDs to more efficiently use tracks and increase total available capacity. The way it does this is by supplying the outer tracks of the disk with more sectors than it does for the inner rings. This operation is in direct contrast to other methods like ‘zoned constant angular velocity’ drives in which the sectors on each track do not vary at all.

On each, there are concentric tracks that get bigger, the further you get away from the centre, meaning that zone bit recording is a logic and necessary step to optimise capacity.

Lifetime Warranty

All OFFTEK memory is backed by our full lifetime warranty. We obsess over our products so you do not have to. Our team constantly strive to ensure that all our memory is of the highest quality but should you ever have any issues with your purchase you have the peace of mind that you can return your product for a replacement if the need arises.

Top Brands

We have close relationships with all of the top tier RAM memory manufacturers which enables us to provide a constant supply of the highest quality products. This in effect means compatible, reliable RAM and most importantly great prices, all backed by a limited lifetime warranty. If you require a specific brand of memory then please do not hesitate to contact one of our sales team.

Guaranteed Compatibility

Over the years we have taken immense care in creating one of the most in depth memory configurators. We do this to ensure that when you purchase a memory upgrade from OFFTEK you are confident that the upgrade is 100% compatible with your system. Should you have any questions prior to ordering your upgrade we have technicians on hand via live chat, email or phone who will be able to answer any queries you may have.

We take the time to look into each machine to ensure that we offer all sizes and speeds that the machine is able to take not just the latest specification that has been released. We believe that offering all options for machines provides a 100% guarantee that the memory with function with your original memory module efficiently.

What is DDR3 RAM?

Every part of a personal computer has either a serial number, model number or abbreviation to identify it from other components. These names and number all come about for a reason and aren’t random at all. Here we look at one of those components...DDR3 RAM. So what is it and why is named as such?

Double Data Rate

In essence, the DDR3 RAM chip, is just a newer version of standard SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory), that is quicker and able to handle more data.

The abbreviation itself is easy to explain. DDR means ‘Double Data Rate’, meaning it has a high bandwidth when compared to its predecessors. The ‘3’ part is easy to explain, It is simply the version of DDR RAM that came after DDR2 and before DDR4.

How Much Better is DDR3 than DDR1 and DDR2?

As computer components are generally graded on their performance, it is easiest to compare the speed of operation between DDR1, DDR2 and DDR3.

DDR1 - Released in 2000, it works typically (dependent on the hardware it is plugged into) between 200-400 MHz.

DDR4 was released in late 2012 and it had doubled in just 5 years to a speed of 2033 MHz. What becomes very evident looking briefly at the data above, is that there is an inexorable improvement year on year when it comes to RAM. To put it into context, the DDR4 is able to process an incredible 17-21Gb of data per second which compares very favourably to its predecessor, the DDR3, which can handle 8.5-14.9 Gbps.

Prefetch Buffering

Another factor that decides the performance of any given DDR version, is something called prefetch buffering capacity. This buffer is defined as the mechanism that allows a certain amount of data to be ‘read’ per memory access, i.e. how many rows of data can it access at a time, before the memory has to be accessed again.

Comparisons show:

DDR had a prefetch buffer limit of 2 data words per access

DDR2 - 4 data words per access

DDR3 - 8 data words per access

Superior Efficiency

As well as being able to process more data, more quickly, each evolution of DDR chip has been able to make this speed improvement, whilst at the same time reducing the power it needs to do so. When DDR1 was released, it required 2.5-2.6 volts to operate. Now compare that to the DDR3, which only requires 1.3-1.5 volts do a better job, processing 4 times as much data per memory access.

Summary

The basic principle to remember, that the higher the version number of DDR, the more quickly it will work. If you’re thinking of upgrading your PC’s memory, do remember to find out what its memory status is and what compatibility it has with each DDR type.

We hope that this article has helped you to understand your PCs memory architecture a little better.

If you are looking to place a quantity order or are buying on behalf of the public or private sector then please contact one of our designated account managers who will be able to deal with your requirements in more detail.

Unsure on your current memory specification or looking to purchase in quantity?

For any queries you may have please contact one of our experienced Memory Specialists via one of the following methods and they will ensure that any issue is resolved immediately and effectively.

Request a Callback

The advantages of adding more Ram Memory

Installing a memory module is one of the simplest upgrades that can be done to a computer

There is no configuration, no sitting around waiting for things to update and backup. It is simply plug and play!By adding more Ram memory into you laptop, desktop or server you will be doing the following:

Improving the overall performance of the machine

Allowing for increased multitasking

Extending the life of the machine

Producing faster boot times

Increasing productivity

Decreasing latency in gaming

Adding memory is the easiest upgrade available for your machine for the best increase in performance. If you are unsure on how to upgrade your machine no problem take a look at our detailed guides on how to install your new Laptop or Desktop Memory upgrade.

Compatibility Guarantee

Guaranteed Compatibility

Over the years we have taken immense care in creating one of the most in depth memory configurators. We do this to ensure that when you purchase a memory upgrade from OFFTEK you are confident that the upgrade is 100% compatible with your system. Should you have any questions prior to ordering your upgrade we have technicians on hand via live chat, email or phone who will be able to answer any queries you may have.

We take the time to look into each machine to ensure that we offer all sizes and speeds that the machine is able to take not just the latest specification that has been released. We believe that offering all options for machines provides a 100% guarantee that the memory with function with your original memory module efficiently.

Free Returns

Brands we Supply

Why buy from offtek

Matched Ram upgrades for your specific model

Offtek provides matched upgrades for new and legacy machines. Every one of our RAM modules are tested to ensure that not only are they compatible with the machine but also that they perform in a wide range of different environmental conditions. This allows us to back our modules with a limited lifetime warranty.

Established in 1996, OFFTEK is trusted by many of the UK's best known household names as their number ONE source for ram upgrades.

Misson critical or movie night we have your upgrade sorted

Our team is made up of memory specialists with an average of 9 years experience in the RAM industry. We offer upgrades for not only the latest machines on the market but just as important those legacy machines that you need to keep running.

RAM is extremely important in ensuring your machine operates at its optimum performance. Our upgrades ensure that your computer will be performing at its best for years to come.

Technical Staff with Over 9 years of experience

We have dedicated and highly trained experts with an average of 9 years experience. They are here to help you from purchase through to installation. We use a number of contact methods so you can speak to one of our specialists with ease.

Fast Free UK Delivery

We offer FAST FREE UK Delivery on all orders with 96% of orders dispatched same day. For those that cannot wait we also offer faster delivery options including next day.

60 Day Money Back Guarantee

Not 100% happy with your order then return it to us under our No Quibble 60 Day Money Back Guarantee. Worried you might have made the wrong choice? With our no quibble return policy you can send it back to us and get a full refund up to 60 days after you've received your order. Whether you've picked the wrong product or just changed your mind you can send your order back to us and you'll get all your money back.

Twice Daily Price Checks

Our Price Promise commitment means that you can buy from us with confidence.

Our team works hard to ensure that you not only have peace of mind in the fact that the memory you order is 100% compatible but that our price is also the lowest for that product.

We check our prices daily against all our competitors to ensure that you are getting the best deal.

Experts On Hand

We have dedicated and highly trained experts with an average of 7 years experience. They are here to help you from purchase through to installation. We use a number of contact methods so you can speak to one of our specialists with ease.

Limited Lifetime Warranty

Feel confident that your memory will last a lifetime. Our limited lifetime warranty guarantees that if your memory should ever fail we will replace or repair the product free of charge provided that it is still manufactured. Please note that the lifetime warranty refers only to memory modules and not flash memory or storage products. Please see the individual 'product details' for warranties specific to each product.

100% Compatibility

Every memory product matched specifically to your machine is individually tested to guarantee reliability and 100% compatibility with your computer and operating system.

Online Since 1997

Offtek has been supplying memory online since 1997 with over 500,000 happy customers. Well, maybe the odd one does'nt like us ;)

We have always been passionate about providing our customers with the tools and information to update their systems in the simplest manner. Early in 1996 we took on the challenge to find the type of memory compatible with every computer ever built. Hence our first memory configurator was born. Our constant daily updates allow our customers to easily select the correct memory for their machines and that objective is as important today as it was when the idea was first broached across a kitchen table in central Birmingham

Large Stock Holding

As one the largest memory distributors in Europe, our large stock holding allows us to offer next day delivery on a wide range of products.

Environmentally Friendly

If you have no need for your old memory after you have upgraded to one of our larger/faster modules, we will recycle this for you free of charge under the WEEE directive.

Price Match Request

Fill in the form below if you have seen a product cheaper elsewhere and we will respond via email within 24 hours.

Contact form for the Privacy Officer

You can contact the Offtek Privacy Officer at any point should you have any queries relating to our "Privacy Policy".

This form allows you execute your right to be forgotten. You have the right to object to our use of your personal data, or ask us to view, edit, remove or stop using it if there is no need for us to keep it.

In order to comply with your request, we may ask you to verify your identity.

If you request removal of your personal information, we may as detailed within our Privacy Policy be required to retain some of your data for a minimum period.

First Name

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Email Address

Enquiry

We will only use your details to provide a response and/or to complete your request.